Montana’s extensive railroad network is a vital part of the state’s transportation system, but train accidents can have devastating consequences. Derailments, collisions, and workplace incidents on or around trains often result in serious injuries or even fatalities. When these accidents happen, injured workers and passengers need experienced legal guidance to navigate the complex process of recovering compensation.
At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, our Helena train accident lawyers represent clients across Montana, helping them pursue workers’ compensation benefits, personal injury claims, and any additional compensation they may be entitled to. We focus on making the legal process understandable and manageable while fighting for fair outcomes.
Train accidents in Montana can happen in a variety of situations. Workers on railroads face risks from operating equipment, maintaining tracks, or loading and unloading cargo. Passengers and bystanders are also vulnerable in derailments or collisions. Some of the most frequent types of train accidents include:
Derailments – when cars leave the tracks, potentially causing crush injuries or property damage.
Collisions – trains colliding with vehicles, other trains, or fixed objects.
Worker injuries – slips, falls, or being struck by moving equipment during maintenance or loading.
Pedestrian and vehicle incidents – accidents at crossings involving cars or pedestrians.
These accidents can result in traumatic injuries such as broken bones, spinal cord damage, head injuries, burns, or in severe cases, death.
If you’re a railroad worker injured on the job, Montana workers’ compensation benefits may cover medical treatment, wage replacement, and long-term disability. Even though train accidents can be complex, the core goal of workers’ comp is to ensure that injured employees receive care and financial support while they recover. Benefits generally include:
Coverage for medical expenses related to the injury.
Partial wage replacement if you cannot work while recovering.
Long-term disability benefits if you are unable to return to your prior job.
Death benefits for families in fatal accident cases.
Our Helena attorneys help railroad employees navigate the claims process, making sure all forms are completed correctly and that insurance companies follow the law.
Not all train-related injuries are covered solely by workers’ compensation. If another party contributed to the accident, you may have a third-party claim. For example:
A negligent train operator or co-worker.
A railroad company failing to maintain tracks or equipment properly.
Collisions caused by vehicles, contractors, or faulty signals.
Third-party claims can allow injured workers or passengers to recover additional compensation for pain and suffering, full lost wages, and property damage that workers’ compensation does not cover.
Being involved in a train accident can be overwhelming, and knowing what to do next can make a big difference for your case. It’s important to:
Report the incident to your employer or relevant authorities.
Get medical treatment immediately and follow your healthcare provider’s advice.
Document the accident thoroughly, including photos and witness information if possible.
Reach out to an experienced attorney as soon as you can to understand your rights.
Taking these steps helps ensure that your injuries are properly documented and that you have the best chance of receiving the benefits and compensation you deserve.
Railroad accidents often involve complex rules, multiple parties, and serious injuries. Families and workers across Helena and Montana turn to our firm because we:
Understand the unique risks and regulations of Montana railroads.
Handle workers’ comp claims and third-party lawsuits together.
Investigate accidents thoroughly to uncover all responsible parties.
Communicate clearly, keeping clients informed at every stage.
Our goal is to protect your rights, guide you through the process, and help you recover compensation so you can focus on your recovery and your family.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a train accident anywhere in Montana, don’t wait to get guidance. At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, our attorneys work with clients across the state to recover workers’ compensation benefits, pursue third-party claims, and secure the compensation they need to move forward.
Call our office or schedule a consultation online to speak with a Helena train accident lawyer. We’ll review your case, explain your options in plain language, and fight to protect your rights and recovery.
Are all railroad workers covered by workers’ compensation?
Most railroad employees are covered, but coverage may vary depending on the employer and the specific circumstances of the accident.
Can passengers pursue compensation after a derailment?
Yes — passengers injured in a train accident may have personal injury claims against the railroad or third parties responsible for the accident.
What if the accident involved a collision at a crossing?
Both the vehicle driver and the railroad company may be liable, depending on the circumstances. An attorney can help determine the best way to pursue compensation.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Montana law sets deadlines for workers’ compensation and personal injury claims, so it’s important to seek legal guidance promptly to protect your rights.
